February Gardening To-Dos

If temperatures are above freezing, prune roses after President’s Day.
Till and mix in organic compost as weather permits to prepare soil in flower and vegetable garden beds.
On mild winter days, plant bare-root roses, trees, deciduous shrubs, primroses and pansies.
Mid-month, pull mulch partly away from emerging bulbs and perennials and hunt for hidden slugs.
If you didn’t plant bulbs in the fall, buy potted bulbs now and place them in a warm, bright spot to encourage early bloom.

On mild days, plant small fruit trees.
Purchase seeds to get your vegetables started indoors.
Start broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower indoors under grow lights.
At month’s end, move veggie starts into a cold frame or sheltered outdoor location to harden off.

Starlings pecking at turf help remove soil pests such as crane fly larvae. Make these feathered heroes feel welcome.
Check lawn for standing puddles. Correct drainage or replace lawn with better-adapted ground covers.

Visit the Garden Festival for inspiration.
Decorate your home for Valentine’s Day and buy something special for your sweetie.
Check your indoor plants on a regular basis. Bring your plants to Molbak’s Information Booth in our Garden Center anytime and our plant experts can help with any questions.
Be sure to keep bird feeders clean and full. Hummingbird feeders need to be cleaned every two weeks. Other bird feeders should be cleaned yearly.